National Infrastructure Awards

Australia's 2018 Smart Infrastructure Project Award

Infrastructure Partnerships Australia's 2018 Smart Infrastructure Project Award has been awarded to the Nonlinear Channel Optimisation Simulator (NCOS) Online project, developed by the Port of Brisbane and DHI Australia. The Award was sponsored by the Department and presented by the Department's Secretary, Dr Steven Kennedy, at Infrastructure Partnerships Australia's National Infrastructure Awards on Thursday 24 May 2018.

NCOS Online is an innovative software solution that provides a detailed forecast of a vessel's under keel clearances based on channel depth, weather conditions and vessel configurations. The software has allowed the Port of Brisbane to receive larger vessels while reducing dredging requirements along its 90 kilometre channel, and improved operational and safety outcomes for shipping customers. In the first six months of operation, the Port of Brisbane doubled the number of bulk carriers departing with a draft greater than 14 metres, and achieved a 167 per cent increase in container ships with a draft greater than 13 metres.

The Award Judging Panel shortlisted NCOS Online as an outstanding example of smart infrastructure, recognising that this project is the first of its kind globally, and it has delivered a high rate of return on a relatively modest capital investment. The project exemplifies innovation and excellence in the use of smart technology in the delivery of infrastructure services, and will deliver tangible operational, safety and environmental benefits for the shipping industry and port towns globally.